INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- Incirlik had not heard the sound of rotational squadron deployment F-16s taking off for more than 16 years. That all changed when the first fighting falcons arrived here Jan. 8 from the 52nd Fighter Wing at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. Incirlik welcomed the 22nd and 23rd Fighter Squadrons and Turkey provided them with beautiful weather and valuable access to the Konya Air Base bombing range.

"Since winters in Germany are usually marked by bad weather, low cloud ceilings, poor visibility and precipitation, Incirlik provided an alternative site with much better weather," said Maj. James Gump, 39th Operations Squadron chief of weapons and tactics. "The goal for the 52nd FW was to take advantage of this good weather and available bombing range, and hone each pilot's skills in a high-quality training environment."

The Rotational Squadron Deployments at Incirlik began Jan. 3 with the arrival of the 22nd FS. The 22nd FS was replaced by the 23rd FS Feb. 2. By Feb. 24, all but two jets were back at Spangdahlem. A total of 652 sorties were flown between the two squadrons and rotation training was deemed successful.

"Both squadrons were able to take advantage of the weather, airspace and bombing range that Turkey has to offer," said Major Gump. "The leadership of both squadrons expressed their gratitude to Team Incirlik for its support, and were pleased with how much they were able to get accomplished."

The few remaining 52nd FS personnel are awaiting parts to fix one of the two remaining jets. Once the aircraft is repaired, both jets will be flown back to Spangdahlem by Major Gump and Lt. Col. David Youtsey, 39th OS commander.

"Although only one jet is awaiting parts for repair, the second jet was held behind, because "normally single-seat fighters fly cross-country with a wingman," explained Major Gump.